It was a memorable game: repeat champs France led by captain Zidane go head-to- head with the Italian Stallions. After a foul in the box, Zidane effortlessly (or should I say a little cocky) scores a penalty putting France ahead in the 7th minute of the game leaving Italy on the defensive hunt.
In a beautiful play following a corner kick, defender Materazzi rose above the French defender to put a ball squarely into the back of the 'ole "onion bag" tying the game.
Just before the end of the game, Zidane, known for his composure and amazing leadership, headed the ball towards goal and was saved by Buffon. Too bad -- this would surely have been the end of the Italians. Missing this goal seemed to infuriate Zidane, setting the stage for what turned out to be the worst memory of any World Cup.
In extra time of the sloppy and aggressive, but highly competitive match, Materazzi fueled Zidane's already boiling over emotions by saying something we can't wait for his publicist to reveal. Many speculate that it was a racial slur about Zidane's Algerian immigrant heritage. Whatever he said put Zidane in bull-fighting mode as France’s captain charged Materazzi and viciously head-butted his chest sending Italy's instigator plummeting to the ground in pain!
I wonder if Zidane's publicist either went into crisis mode or immediately wondered if his head was ok because it seemingly went right through Materazzi's chest.
No seemed to notice on the ref side, but players, Italy's coach and the 4th official saw it all. Zidane, who was retiring after what he hoped to be a grand exit, was red carded and given the golden boot of shame. He might as well picked up the gold World Cup and personally handed it to captain Cannavaro.
In a penalty shoot out, Italy defeated France winning their first World Cup since 1982.
Poor Zidane-- or should I really lament for his publicist. This game should have solidified him as the greatest football (for those who are seemingly confused, I'm referring to soccer) player of our generation. Instead, sports reporters worldwide have deemed this act as the ugliest act of all.
What does a publicist do? My suggestion is that she find out what Materazzi said and make THAT the new headlines. I'm curious to know and well, who isn’t?!
Zidane you're still my favorite and I look forward to seeing you play for New York where that aggressive "don't mess with me" attitude fits in well! Maybe you can start by teaching everyone that its football you're playing.
...Out of the mouth of babes
Posted by Lauren Branche on July 10, 2006 11:24 AM
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